Manuela was still recovering from that attack, wasn't she? And Hanneman sat out with her, but they both insisted on the Professor still taking part. You're right, I'm not sure we would have won either without her out on the field with us directing everyone. It would have been chaos otherwise.

[ He can't quite hide the shadow of trepidation and... grief? Regret? that flickers through his gaze at the mention of Gronder. And the war. Which are two things that unfortunately are far too entangled for him right now. ]

Remember? [ He echoes that strange word choice, shaking his head. He takes another deep swallow of his ale, needing it as he shudders once more. ] Considering before I was dragged out of that pool this morning, I was standing on the edges of Gronder, staring down at two separate forces ready to recreate our mock battle with us all over again? It's still pretty damned clear in my mind. [ And he hasn't quite been able to shake the lingering dread of the consequences that would come from the day ahead even now. ]

I'd be more grateful for the impromptu abduction if I wasn't so worried about what was happening back there without me. And if they hadn't pulled me here hoping to make me do the same damn thing. I was consoling myself that this time at least I wouldn't have to be afraid of coming across a familiar face on the battlefield but from what you've told me, that might be the case even here.